As common as it is to be stressed while caring for an aging loved one, the potential for “vital exhaustion”—burnout—should be taken seriously. Doing your best to avoid it is important for yourself and for those who rely on you.

It might be uncomfortable to talk to your loved one about their preferences for life-sustaining treatment. No one likes to think about worst-case scenarios. But it’s very important that their desires be understood and documented should they ever be unable to speak for themselves.